This study is an open-label, 6 month trial, of immediate release methylphenidate (MPH-IR) for children with ADHD aimed at assessing whether the observable behavioral changes seen during treatment are associated with potentially more stable underlying modifications in brain functioning (resting-state functional connectivity). Additionally, we will also be looking at treatment effects on neuropsychological processes and reading skills. This information will contribute to the first Brazilian study assessing the cost-effectiveness of the treatment of ADHD. Children with ADHD will be compared to a sample of sex and age-matched sample of typically developing children.

The scheme provides for initial dose of 0.3 mg / kg / day, with an average dose of 1mg/kg/day. The increases will be made considering the presentation of the drug (10mg), which allows increments of 5mg or 10mg, which will be made in clinical review, as the clinical symptoms, including increasing the dose until there is more room for improvement or there is presence of significant adverse effects, all the patients with indication of treatment will be assessed before the use of medication, 15 days, 30 days, 3 and 6 months after the start,

Eligibility

Ages Eligible for Study:

8 Years to 10 Years

Genders Eligible for Study:

Male

Accepts Healthy Volunteers:

Yes

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

The study will include 20 boys aged 8 to 10 years old, regularly enrolled in local schools and directed to the research through advertisement in the media, contact with schools or directly referred to the Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Program (ProDAH/HCPA) by primary care services for assessment and treatment. Only children with a primary diagnosis of ADHD or with the comorbidity ADHD + reading disorder or ADHD + ODD will be included. Only drug-naïve subjects will be apt to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

Children who fit into one or more of the following conditions will not be considered eligible to take part in the study: (1) they are outside the age range specified; (2) they are not regularly enrolled and attending school; (3) they have a history of prior or current treatment with psychoactive drugs or psychotherapy; (4) they are mentally retarded (Overall IQ<80); (5) they have a main diagnosis differing from ADHD, including children with other psychiatric or neurological diagnoses

Contacts and Locations

Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study.
To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the Contacts provided below.
For general information, see Learn About Clinical Studies.

Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01228604